Addiction In My Family: Recent Episodes
Donna Marston
Addiction in My Family podcast is for concerned parents and family members whose loved one is in active addiction (alcohol, prescribed medications, street drugs).
In this episode of the Sharing Without Shame podcast, host Donna Marston speaks with Dr. Rob Kelly, a world-renowned addiction expert. Dr. Kelly shares his personal journey from homelessness and addiction to becoming a successful psychologist, discussing how confronting past trauma and reshaping neural pathways can lead to recovery. He emphasizes that addiction is not just about substances but often tied to deeper issues like childhood trauma. Kelly's candid approach, often compared to Gordon Ramsay’s, underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of addiction and fostering recovery through understanding and neuroscience.Throughout the episode, Dr. Kelly and Donna explore the connection between childhood trauma and various forms of addiction, noting how unresolved trauma can lead to self-sabotaging behaviors in adulthood. Kelly explains how patterns formed in childhood, such as feeling unworthy or dealing with emotional pain, often manifest in addiction. He also touches on the difference between alcoholism, which he describes as a genetic predisposition, and other forms of addiction that arise from life experiences. Kelly’s message of hope and healing resonates as he stresses the possibility of recovery, regardless of one's background.Sponsors: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/Malley Farm for WomanWebsite: https://malleyfarmforwomen.org/
In this episode of the Sharing Without Shame podcast, host Donna Marston welcomes Eric, the Senior Director of White Horse Recovery Centers. Eric shares his powerful journey from being the "town drunk" to becoming a respected figure in the recovery community. He opens up about his struggles with addiction and the profound turning point in his life that led him to sobriety. Eric recounts how a spiritual experience, sparked by a simple act of shoveling snow with a kitchen broom, marked the beginning of his transformation. This moment of clarity led him to re-engage with AA meetings and embrace a higher power, which he believes was crucial in his recovery.Eric also discusses the incredible support he received from his community, which played a pivotal role in his sobriety. Despite the challenges of hitchhiking 32 miles a day for a $10-an-hour car wash job, the community rallied around him, ensuring he was never late for work and helping him stay on the path to recovery. Today, Eric is dedicated to giving back and helping others find their own paths to sobriety. He talks about his work at White Horse Recovery Centers and his passion for creating recovery housing in Northern New Hampshire, where individuals can rebuild their lives in a supportive environment. This episode is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the unwavering belief that recovery is possible for everyone.Tune in to the Sharing Without Shame podcast for more inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and healing. Join Donna Marston and her guests as they continue to share their stories without shame.Sponsor: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/
In this powerful episode of "Sharing Without Shame," Donna Marston is joined by special guest Maureen Cavanagh, an influential advocate and author dedicated to supporting families affected by addiction. Together, they share a candid conversation about the often unspoken struggles these families face. Maureen, drawing from her personal experience and advocacy work, discusses the emotional turmoil and complex dynamics that addiction introduces into family relationships. Both she and Donna emphasize the importance of open communication, acknowledging the pain, and finding a support system that understands the unique challenges these families endure. Through their heartfelt dialogue, they offer listeners hope and practical strategies for coping with the rollercoaster of emotions that come with loving someone who is battling addiction.As the episode unfolds, Maureen also addresses the societal stigma attached to addiction and the shame that often silences families from seeking the help they need. She and Donna encourage listeners to break the cycle of silence by sharing their stories and fostering an environment of understanding and compassion. The episode is not only a testament to the strength and resilience of those affected by addiction but also a call to action for creating a more supportive and stigma-free society. Through Maureen's wisdom, advocacy, and personal journey, she inspires families to reclaim their narratives and find healing in their journeys.Tune in to the Sharing Without Shame podcast for more inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and healing. Join Donna Marston and her guests as they continue to share their stories without shame.Sponsor: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/
In this episode of the Sharing Without Shame podcast, host Donna Marston welcomes Tom Conrad, a certified addiction counselor and host of the Real Recovery Talk podcast. The conversation begins with Tom sharing his personal journey through addiction and recovery without shame. Tom reflects on his past struggles with alcoholism and drug addiction, expressing gratitude for the challenges and consequences he faced, which ultimately led him to long-term recovery.Tom details his upbringing in Pennsylvania, where he started drinking at a young age and his addiction progressively worsened. By the age of 26, Tom's life had spiraled out of control, leading to multiple DUIs and the loss of his job and home. His turning point came when his father arranged for him to attend a treatment center in Jacksonville, Florida. After completing 45 days of intense treatment and transitioning to a sober living environment in West Palm Beach, Tom found stability and began his path to sobriety.The discussion also highlights the importance of support systems such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and the role of sponsors in recovery. Tom shares his initial skepticism and eventual acceptance of the 12-step program, emphasizing how crucial it was to his recovery process. He also addresses the stigma surrounding addiction and the increasing openness and resources available to those struggling with substance abuse.Donna and Tom discuss the generational differences in approaching recovery and the vibrant recovery culture in South Florida, where young people actively participate in 12-step programs. Tom’s story is one of resilience and hope, demonstrating the power of recovery and the importance of sharing experiences without shame to inspire others.Tune in to the Sharing Without Shame podcast for more inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and healing. Join Donna Marston and her guests as they continue to share their stories without shame.Sponsor: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/
In this episode of "Sharing Without Shame," host Donna Marston delves into the intricate and often misunderstood world of addiction and recovery, particularly focusing on the familial aspects and generational trauma. Donna begins by reflecting on her journey, highlighting the significance of her first daughter's birth, which coincided with her sober date, marking a profound synchronicity in her life.Throughout the episode, Donna emphasizes the importance of understanding the cycles of trauma and addiction, not only for the individuals directly affected but also for their families. She discusses how addiction is not merely a personal struggle but a generational issue, often rooted in the trauma experienced by previous generations.A central theme of the episode is the concept of "meta sobriety," a term Donna coined to describe a state beyond traditional sobriety and recovery. Meta sobriety represents a phase where individuals are no longer defined by their addiction or recovery status but have fully integrated their past traumas and moved beyond the triggers that once controlled them. This phase is about reclaiming their original, unblemished selves, free from the labels of "addict" or "sober." Donna also introduces "Cosmo synthesis," a framework she developed to address trauma comprehensively. This approach considers the physical, emotional, and energetic aspects of trauma, aiming to heal the entire being rather than just focusing on the subconscious mind.
In this episode of the "Sharing Without Shame" podcast, host Donna Marston introduces Anna Kingsley, a multifaceted therapist from Windsor, England. Anna specializes in psychosexual therapy, relationship physiotherapy, and guiding individuals struggling with substance use disorders. During their conversation, Anna candidly shares her personal experience as the spouse of someone battling addiction and later entering recovery. She explains the emotional toll and challenges that come with supporting a partner through addiction and the complexities of re-establishing a relationship when that partner commits to recovery.Anna recounts how her husband's alcoholism escalated during the COVID-19 lockdown, complicating their family dynamics and adding to the stress of raising two children in isolation. She describes the difficult journey of managing her own emotions, balancing her responsibilities, and ultimately finding ways to protect her well-being. By stopping the secrecy and seeking support from friends and family, Anna navigated through this challenging period. Her story underscores the importance of detachment and self-care for loved ones of individuals with addiction, emphasizing that taking care of oneself is crucial in maintaining a healthy relationship.Tune in to the Sharing Without Shame podcast for more inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and healing. Join Donna Marston and her guests as they continue to share their stories without shame.Sponsor: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/
In this episode of "Sharing Without Shame," host Donna Marston welcomes James Kachnoskie, who shares his powerful story of overcoming an 11-year addiction to alcohol. Born and raised in Shemokin, Pennsylvania, James faced significant challenges that threatened to derail his life. He opens up about the tragic loss of his best friend at age 21, which triggered his descent into alcoholism. James discusses the impact of his addiction, including job losses, legal issues, and strained family relationships.James details his journey to recovery, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and the difficulty of breaking the cycle of addiction. Moving away from his hometown and surrounding himself with a more positive environment played a crucial role in his recovery. He also found solace and discipline in activities like boxing, kickboxing, and jujitsu. A turning point came when he realized he wanted a family and a better life, prompting him to make significant changes.Throughout the episode, James stresses the importance of sharing stories without shame to inspire others facing similar struggles. His candid and heartfelt narrative offers hope and encouragement to anyone dealing with addiction or supporting a loved one through it. This episode highlights the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the support of loved ones in the path to recovery.
In this episode of the Sharing Without Shame podcast, host Donna Marston welcomes Michael Bloom, the founder of Snappbandz, as her guest. The podcast is dedicated to parents and loved ones of individuals in active addiction, aiming to break down stigma and foster understanding through storytelling.Key Points Discussed:Introduction to Snappbandz: Michael Bloom explains how Snappbandz, stylish bracelets that combat negativity, help individuals shift focus and manage their mindset. Donna shares her personal experience with the band, emphasizing its daily use and the comfort it brings.Michael’s Personal Story: Michael opens up about his life, sharing that he is a regular person—a father, husband, son, and brother—who works hard to support his family. He discusses the various sources of stress and anxiety, including work, relationships, finances, and even the news. Michael emphasizes that life is inherently stressful and that anxiety is a common experience shared by many.Universal Struggles with Anxiety: Michael addresses the misconception that anxiety only affects adults, highlighting that it impacts individuals of all ages, including school-aged children. He stresses that anxiety does not discriminate and is a pervasive issue across different demographics.Inspiration to Act: The staggering statistic of over 40 million Americans diagnosed with anxiety motivated Michael to take action. He shares his realization that the anxiety epidemic is a national crisis, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This prompted him to create Snappbandz as a tool to help people manage their mental health.Support and Solidarity: Both Donna and Michael emphasize the importance of understanding that no one is alone in their struggles. They encourage listeners to share their stories without shame, fostering a community of support and resilience.Throughout the episode, Donna and Michael engage in a heartfelt discussion about the challenges of living with anxiety and the importance of mental health tools like Snappbandz. They inspire listeners to embrace their vulnerabilities and support one another in their journeys towards inner peace and emotional well-being.Tune in to the Sharing Without Shame podcast for more inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and healing. Join Donna Marston and her guests as they continue to share their stories without shame.Sponsor: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/
In this insightful episode of "Podcast Sharing Without Shame," host Donna Marston welcomes Jesse Mogle, a dynamic speaker and advocate for mental health and addiction recovery. Together, they delve into the powerful and transformative journey of overcoming addiction and the importance of mental health awareness.Jesse Mogle shares his personal story of addiction, recovery, and the significant life changes that led him to become a motivational speaker and advocate. He emphasizes the critical role of self-awareness, personal accountability, and the support systems that aided his recovery process. Jesse’s narrative is both raw and inspiring, providing listeners with a real-life example of resilience and the human capacity for change.Podcast: From Sobriety to Recovery: https://www.jessemogle.com/fromsobrietytorecovery/Tune in to the Sharing Without Shame podcast for more inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and healing. Join Donna Marston and her guests as they continue to share their stories without shame.Sponsor: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/
In this podcast episode of Sharing Without Shame, host Donna Marston interviews licensed clinical social worker Lianna Purjes, who specializes in working with adult children of alcoholics. Lianna shares her personal experience of growing up with a mother struggling with addiction and discusses how it impacted her relationships and emotional well-being.
She highlights the challenges faced by adult children of alcoholics in building healthy relationships, including attachment issues, communication difficulties, and a tendency towards emotional reactivity. Lianna emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, regulating emotions, and effective communication skills in navigating these challenges.
The conversation delves into the complexities of toxic relationships, the impact of childhood trauma on adult behavior, and the process of healing and self-discovery. Throughout the episode, the message of sharing stories without shame and fostering understanding in addiction-related issues is underscored.
Coaching with Lianna: https://www.coachingwithlianna.com/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/resentmenttoresilience/
Tune in to the Sharing Without Shame podcast for more inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and healing. Join Donna Marston and her guests as they continue to share their stories without shame.Sponsor: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/
In this episode, Donna engages in a conversation with Mike Brown, a recovery advocate and the president and founder of Never Use Alone.Mike Brown, a recovery advocate, discusses the limitations of the 12-step method and promotes harm reduction as an alternative. Drawing from his personal experience as a former IV drug user, he emphasizes the importance of finding individualized pathways to recovery. Brown founded Never Use Alone, a peer-led nonprofit offering an overdose response line, emphasizing connection and support without judgment. He highlights the distinction between addiction and physical dependence, advocating for evidence-based approaches supported by reputable sources. Brown also addresses the legal complexities surrounding drug-related deaths and the need for compassionate interventions.Sponsor: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/
In this episode of the Sharing Without Shame podcast, host Donna Marston invites Monty Meyers, founder of KHLT Recovery Broadcasting, for a profound discussion on overcoming shame and finding freedom in recovery.Monty opens up about his personal journey, revealing how early experiences of abuse in middle school fueled a desire to cover up shame and pain through addiction. He highlights the importance of recognizing that abuse is not the victim's fault and shares insights into healing through therapy and support.
The conversation explores the lasting impact of childhood trauma on addiction and recovery, underscoring the need for inner child work and healing. The conversation concludes with the understanding that recovery is achievable for anyone with the support of a compassionate community and a willingness to address underlying issues.Tune in to the Sharing Without Shame podcast for more inspiring stories of hope, resilience, and healing. Join Donna Marston and her guests as they continue to share their stories without shame.Take 12 Recovery Radio: https://www.youtube.com/c/MontyDaleMeyer/featuredSponsor: Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy BraceletsWebsite: https://snappbandz.com/
Welcome to Sharing With Out Shame Podcast!Today's guest is Elizabeth Kipp, a chronic pain management expert, addiction recovery coach, and author. Elizabeth shares her journey of overcoming chronic pain and addiction, offering insights into finding stability and healing.Elizabeth's journey exemplifies the power of self-awareness, mindset shifts, and holistic healing in overcoming chronic pain and addiction. Her story inspires hope and serves as a reminder that healing is possible beyond shame, fostering understanding and compassion in the journey of recovery.
Website: https://elizabeth-kipp.com/
Books: https://elizabeth-kipp.com/resources/books/
The Way Through Chronic Pain: Tools to Reclaim Your Healing PowerPaths to Peace: A 90-Day JournalThe Ancestors Within: Celebrate and Honor Your Sacred Origins
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that aims to break down stigma and foster understanding in the realm of addiction. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review to support the podcast.
https://sharingwithoutshame.com/
Sponsor:
Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy Bracelets
Website: https://snappbandz.com/
Welcome to Sharing With Out Shame Podcast!
In this heartfelt episode of the Sharing Without Shame podcast, host Donna Marston is joined by Elizabeth Chance, a health and wellness coach and the host of the Busy Living Sober podcast. Together, they delve into the deeply personal and often painful journey of loving someone in active addiction.
Elizabeth's message to our listeners was one of hope and empowerment. She encouraged anyone struggling with addiction to seek help and to prioritize their well-being. Her story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible and that sharing our stories without shame can inspire and support others on their journey.
Elizabeth Chance Podcast
Busy Living Sober: https://elizabethchance.com/
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that aims to break down stigma and foster understanding in the realm of addiction. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review to support the podcast.
https://sharingwithoutshame.com/
Sponsor:
Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy Bracelets
Website: https://snappbandz.com/
In this episode of the "Sharing Without Shame" podcast, host Donna Marston welcomes guest Prema, a survivor of 18 years of domestic violence and alcoholism who has transformed her life into one of forgiveness, self-love, and helping others. Prema shares her journey of overcoming addiction and abuse, highlighting the role of low self-esteem and past trauma in fueling her addiction to alcohol and neediness for approval.
Throughout the episode, Prema's story serves as a testament to the power of forgiveness, self-awareness, and inner healing in overcoming addiction and trauma. Her journey inspires listeners to confront their own struggles without shame and embrace a path of healing and self-love.
Prema Joy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075648859161
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that aims to break down stigma and foster understanding in the realm of addiction. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review to support the podcast.
https://sharingwithoutshame.com/
Sponsor:
Experience Inner Peace with Calming Therapy Bracelets
Website: https://snappbandz.com/
In this episode of the "Sharing With Out Shame" podcast, host Donna Marston explores stories of love, courage, and support in the face of addiction. In this episode, licensed clinical social worker Casey joins the conversation. Casey opens up about his early experiences, born into a family marked by addiction, mental health issues, and abuse.
Casey Arrillaga, LCSW, LCDC has lived with and around addiction for all his life. He is now a therapist specializing in family counseling for addiction. He is the author of the books “Realistic Hope: The Family Survival Guide for Facing Alcoholism and Other Addictions”, “Mommy’s Getting Sober”, and “Spirituality for People Who Hate Spirituality”. He hosts the podcast “Addiction and the Family” and has presented in person and online at state and national conferences. In his work, he shares the knowledge gained from conducting hundreds of family workshops and helping thousands of family members, and also weaves in his own narrative of recovery both as an individual and a family member. For more information, visit CaseyAuthor.com
Casey's Books:
Realistic Hope: The Family Survival Guide for Facing Alcoholism and Other Addictions: Arrillaga, P. Casey: 9781737981503: Amazon.com: BooksMommy's Getting Sober: Includes a guide on talking to kids about addiction: Arrillaga LCSW, P. Casey, Hilton, Skye: 9781737981534: Amazon.com: BooksSpirituality for People Who Hate Spirituality: A Primer: Arrillaga, P. Casey: 9781737981527: Amazon.com: Books
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that aims to break down stigma and foster understanding in the realm of addiction. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review to support the podcast.
https://sharingwithoutshame.com/
In this episode of the "Sharing With Out Shame" podcast, host Donna Marston discusses the impact of addiction on families with guest Cindy, a personal coaching specialist. Cindy shares her personal experiences with addiction in her family, highlighting the challenges faced by her siblings and her own children. The conversation explores early signs of mental health issues, the role of ADHD, bullying, and the complex dynamics of substance abuse.
The discussion delves into the struggles of finding appropriate support and the emotional journey of a parent navigating a loved one's addiction. The episode emphasizes the importance of breaking down stigma, fostering understanding, and sharing stories without shame to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Check out Cindy Brockway's Facebook Group: Essentials for Peace and Balance: Personal and Professional
Book a call with Cindy here: https://calendly.com/cindy-pbe/self-expansion-inquiry-callTune in for an inspiring conversation that aims to break down stigma and foster understanding in the realm of addiction. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review to support the podcast.
https://sharingwithoutshame.com/
In this episode of the Sharing Without Shame podcast, host Donna Marston welcomes Susan Anderson, a private practice psychotherapist and author. They discuss the power of sharing stories without shame and how it can help individuals and their loved ones navigate the challenges of addiction. Susan shares her personal journey and expertise in abandonment recovery, offering insights and support for those going through similar experiences. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of love, courage, and unwavering support in the face of adversity.
Susan Anderson is a private practice psychotherapist in New York, Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor, a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Author of Journey from Abandonment to Healing, Taming Your Outer Child, The Black Swan and Founder of Abandonment Recovery.
Abandonment Recovery: https://www.abandonment.net/
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that aims to break down stigma and foster understanding in the realm of addiction. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review to support the podcast.
Website: https://sharingwithoutshame.com/
In this podcast episode, Andrea shares her journey and how she turned her pain into purpose. Her book and our conversation offer hope and actionable strategies for those struggling with a loved one's addiction.
"Saving you is killing me" - Andrea's powerful words that became the title of her book. We discuss the emotional toll of addiction on relationships and how to find strength amidst the chaos.
You can find Andrea Seydel here:
Website: https://www.andreaseydel.com/
Podcast: The Saving You Is Killing Me: Loving Someone With An Addiction Podcast
Books: Saving You Is Killing Me: Loving Someone With An Addiction
Saving Me: One Day at a Time -Finding Light Amidst the Shadows of Addiction (Saving You Is Killing Me: Loving Someone With an Addiction)
Our website: https://sharingwithoutshame.com/
In this podcast episode, Donna Marston interviews Christine, who opens up about her struggle with alcohol addiction. Christine shares her background, including a challenging upbringing marked by violence and abandonment. She talks about hitting rock bottom and driving into a tree before realizing she needed help. Christine found solace in Alcoholics Anonymous and credits the 12-step program and her newfound spirituality for her transformation and recovery.
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Donna4Support
Website: https://sharingwithoutshame.com/
Donna and Penny discuss the gifts of recovery that Penny has achieved. How her journey into recovery brought about positive changes in her life, her personal growth and how we can't love our children into recovery. The gifts of recovery can vary from person to person, but they often include things like: Healthy Relationships, Emotional Resilience, Improved Mental Health, Spiritual Awakening and Community Support. It's important to note that the gifts of recovery are often ongoing and may continue to unfold over time. The journey is unique for each individual, and the support of others, therefore, conversations like the one with Donna and Penny, can be instrumental in navigating a persons pathway to recovery.
Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Donna4Support
Website: https://sharingwithoutshame.com/
A conversation with Mone Cassier, a person in long term recovery and owner of Sober Sisters in Somersworth, N.H.
S.L.I.P. when Sobriety Loses it's Priority
Donna talks about what to do and not do in order to be emotionally supportive when your child has a setback (relapse). Donna shares some of her personal story.
"What I Know to be True"
Donna reads from her book Peeling The Onion about what she knew to be true when her son was in active addiction. Donna shares a letter that she wrote many years ago called "Please Keep Your Opinion To Yourself."
Donna talks with George Peterson, an entrepreneur in recovery, who shares about his addiction and how he found his way to live in the solution of recovery. George is a meditation & yoga teacher who studied at the Deepak Chopra foundation, you can contact George at www.missingpiecemeditation.com
"The Love Code"
Donna is open and honest about her relationship with her son who is in long term recovery and about what happened on Mother's Day, 2018. Hurt feelings unfolded her son's resentments towards her and how they moved forward to be in a better place.
There are many pathways to recovery and better health. Donna interviews Paul Ramsay who is a Board Certified Hypnotist and Certified Instructor of Hypnotism. Paul talks about how he sees the potential to help people create the change that they desire by using the power of suggestion. Paul works privately with clients and runs workshops in Loudon, N.H. when he isn't traveling around the country.
Michelle Vanagal shares how her addiction has affected her relationship with her family, she talks about being in and out of jail/prison while incurring felony charges for selling drugs because of her addiction. Michelle shares how sober living at Rise Above in Nashua, N.H. was her pathway to recovery.
Donna's son Peter shares his experience about his drug use, how he was able to hide it from his family and why he resented his Mother who was his Chief Enabler.
Donna M. talks about the 6 stages of change in addiction and family roles because when addiction hits home, family members go into survival mode and every family member takes on a role.
Kimberly Desiree is a person in long term recovery and also a daughter of parents who had a substance use disorder. Kimberly's journey of growing up in and living in unhealthy environments has brought her to a place in her life where she healed her past so that she could move forward living her life in the solution of recovery and as an Intuitive Coach and Mentor.
Donna explains how this podcast will educate about addiction, enabling, co-dependency, healing and recovery.